Ercole Barbera del Monferrato
We were excited to taste this fun “little” bottle today. Ercole Barbera del Monferrato is a light-bodied, medium acid, 100% Barbera from the Monferrato DOC. On the nose, you’ll find notes of spice followed up with fruit. Lots of cherry and fresh red and black fruits on the palette and a juicy acidity make this quaffable red the perfect everyday wine. Try it with a light chill and pair it with a creamy cheese. We loved it with Point Reyes Toma and Hay There Truffle Gouda.
Many folks know the Barbera grape for its bright acidity, and this wine is no exception. Experts have actually traced the origin of Barbera to the hills of Monferrato. Monferrato ranks among the most historic grape-growing regions of Piedmont. In Monferrato, the most prestigious zones are dedicated to Barbera plantings, exactly the opposite of Langhe, where Nebbiolo reigns supreme. The Barbera grapes are typically planted to southern exposure in calcareous clay, these vineyards yield wines of great depth and balance. The calcareous clay is known for its high pH and water retention aiding to the acidity and sweetness of the grapes.
Ercole is an everyday wine upholding The Piedmont Guy’s commitment to honoring the work of the unsung heroes of Italy—the grape growers themselves. Ercole, whose English translation is Hercules, is only made possible by a generations-old cooperative of local growers in the Monferrato area. The cooperative behind Ercole works predominantly with old vines ranging from 30 to 50 years old. All participating growers adhere to the European Union rule for sustainable farming known as lotta integrata, or lutte raisonnée, though many are now certified organic. None of these growers use systemic treatments or chemicals, employing only minimal copper and sulfur. Both vinification and bottling are certified vegan.
Every fall, these men and women cultivate pristine and sustainably farmed fruit, making authentic wines that are transmitters of time and place. Small, independent cooperative wineries like this are not only the lifeblood of thousands of small growers across Italy but also repositories safeguarding the native grape varieties and winemaking traditions of their respective regions. This wine is packed in 1-liter bottles to visually communicate their suitable style to everyone. At $21 it’s a great wine to share with friends. Crack open a bottle and enjoy a taste of Italy today!
